Vending-machine lock with motor-controlled slide-bar and hook mechanism

Abstract

The present invention provides a reversible motor to drive a slide and hook locking mechanism. The motor can drive the slide via a worm gear, in which case the worm drive is coupled to the slide through a crankshaft-type connection. Alternatively, the slide is gear-driven or connected using a push-pull cable or rod. An electronic control with a microcomputer interface controls the motor and may be operated by a keypad or by a remote wireless device.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 60 / 618,069, filed on Oct. 12, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD [0002] The present invention relates generally to vending-machine locks and, more particularly, to such locks with slide-bar and hook mechanisms. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Snack food and glass-front vending machines today are typically secured with slide-bar and hook mechanisms in their doors. These hooks generally extend into a cabinet frame of the vending machine to secure the door. Locking the door is typically controlled by a rotatable exterior handle and by a mechanical T-handle mechanism. The handle is prevented from rotating by a mechanical core lock. In one example, a slide-bar configuration consists of one or more bars that are in a retracted position while the door is open and while the door is being closed. Once the door is closed, the ope...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0004] In view of the foregoing, the present invention improves on the methods, operations, and interfaces of locking and unlocking a vending machine. The present invention makes it possible to remove certain components from the outside of a vending machine door. This improvement enhances security by providing a more difficult point of attack. It also provides additional exterior surface area on which to add decorative features to the vending machine door.

[0006] The first object of the invention is to improve the locking and unlocking operation of a door by removing the need for a handle interfaced to a slide-bar and hook mechanism.

[0008] The third object is to provide a less user-interactive procedure and an easier interface to access and lock the vending machine.

[0009] The fourth object is to provide a faster method for accessing and locking the vending machine.

[0010] The fifth object is to improve the security of the door and to remove the point of attack by removing an access-control unit from the door and replacing it with an electronic remote or removable keypad transmission device.

Problems solved by technology

These methods are typically cumbersome and time consuming.

In addition, such a vending machine typically has an unattractive handle and a dial or keypad lock mounted to the exterior of the door.

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